Discover Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. Explore the magnificent Imperial City, ancient royal tombs and riverside temples while uncovering the history of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Journey north from Da Nang or Hoi An to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by lush countryside and shaped by the Perfume River, Hue is home to grand palaces, royal tombs, ancient pagodas and centuries of Vietnamese history.

Begin with pickup from your hotel in Da Nang or Hoi An and travel comfortably by private vehicle with your own guide. Cross the Hai Van Pass and continue through the changing landscapes of central Vietnam towards Hue.

Begin your exploration at the Imperial City, the historic heart of Hue’s royal complex. Enter through the impressive Ngo Mon Gate and explore grand courtyards, palace buildings, temples and gardens that once formed the centre of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Continue through the Imperial Enclosure and learn about the emperors, royal ceremonies and court life that shaped Hue during Vietnam’s imperial era. Discover the surviving architecture and restored structures within the citadel.

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch and take time to experience some of Hue’s distinctive regional cuisine before continuing your exploration.

In the afternoon, visit one or more of Hue’s remarkable royal tombs. Explore the landscaped grounds, ornate gateways, temples and pavilions built for Vietnam’s Nguyen emperors, set among peaceful hills and gardens outside the city.

Continue to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s most recognisable landmarks. Set beside the Perfume River, the seven-storey pagoda is an important Buddhist site and offers a peaceful contrast to the grandeur of the imperial complex.

Depending on your interests and available time, take a short cruise along the Perfume River or explore Hue’s historic streets and local markets before beginning your return journey.

Leave Hue in the late afternoon and travel back towards Da Nang or Hoi An. Relax on the scenic journey through central Vietnam, arriving at your hotel in the evening.

Duration: 10–11 Hours

Includes

• Private transportation

• English-speaking guide

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off

• Imperial City entrance fee

• Royal tomb entrance fees

• Thien Mu Pagoda visit

• Local Vietnamese lunch

• Complimentary bottled water

What to bring

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sunscreen

• Hat or sunglasses

• Light jacket

• Cash

• Raincoat (in case of rain)

Know before you go

• The tour can be operated from either Da Nang or Hoi An.

• The journey includes the Hai Van Pass and scenic coastal roads.

• Hue can be hot and humid, particularly during the summer months.

• Please dress respectfully when visiting temples, pagodas and royal religious sites.

• The exact royal tombs visited can be adapted according to your interests and available time.